REVIEW - ANIMAL FARM | LEEDS PLAYHOUSE | 15/03/2025

George Orwell’s Animal Farm is a political allegory that remains strikingly relevant, depicting how revolutions can descend into tyranny. Bringing such a complex story to the stage without puppetry or CGI is no easy feat, yet Leeds Playhouse’s adaptation, directed by Amy Leach and adapted by Tatty Hennessy, embraces physical theatre and striking movement to convey the downfall of an idealistic rebellion. The production successfully captures Orwell’s biting satire while adding its own distinct flourishes to the well-known tale.

The animals of Manor Farm, long suffering under their human owner’s cruelty, rise up and seize control, envisioning a utopia where all creatures are equal. However, as the pigs take charge—led by Napoleon (Tachia Newall), Snowball (Robin Morrissey), and Squealer (Tom Simper)—the dream of equality begins to unravel. What starts as a revolution against oppression soon morphs into a different kind of tyranny, as the pigs manipulate, exploit, and betray their fellow animals. The production doesn’t shy away from the novel’s bleak trajectory, portraying the slow erosion of hope and the chilling transformation of ideals into dictatorship. The hardships of individual animals are given emotional weight—Clover (Tianah Hodding) mourns her lost foals, Minty (Farshid Rokey) grieves his stolen flock, and Clara (Bridie Service) is forced to surrender her eggs under false promises. The heart-wrenching demise of Boxer (Gabriel Paul), who gives everything to the cause only to be discarded when no longer useful, is particularly devastating.

Hayley Grindle’s stark two-tiered set visually reinforces the power divide. The lower level, a bleak and cage-filled barn, is where the labouring animals toil, while the upper level—complete with warmth and comfort—becomes the pigs’ domain. This clear separation highlights the ever-widening gap between those in control and those who suffer beneath them. Lighting by Jai Morjaria and sound design by Khalil Madovi effectively build tension, particularly in moments of conflict and revolution. The soundscape is immersive, heightening the intensity of the story’s most brutal moments. Costume choices cleverly blend human and animal elements, with subtle nods to species—tattooed identification markers, scrubs for the ever-producing hen, and working-class attire for the labouring animals—all reinforcing the play’s social commentary. Rather than relying on elaborate costumes or masks, the cast employs carefully measured brays, snorts, and whinnies to maintain the illusion of their animal identities. Gabriel Paul’s portrayal of Boxer is particularly effective, punctuated by well-timed horse-like sounds that enhance his physicality. These vocalisations are sparing yet effective, preventing them from becoming a distraction while adding an immersive quality to the performance.

The physicality of the cast is outstanding. Under Kane Husbands’ movement direction, the actors embody their animal roles with a blend of realism and theatrical exaggeration. Boxer (Gabriel Paul) moves with a heavy, plodding determination, while Napoleon’s gait becomes increasingly arrogant as his power grows. Minty’s sprightly, scampering energy and Clara’s nervous, fluttering motions add depth to their characters. Even in the background, the actors maintain their animalistic presence, contributing to the immersive atmosphere.

Everal A Walsh commands the stage as Old Major, delivering his revolutionary speech with captivating gravitas. Robin Morrissey’s Snowball is bursting with idealistic energy, making his downfall all the more tragic, while Tachia Newall’s Napoleon grows ever more sinister, exuding ruthless authority. Tom Simper steals many scenes as Squealer, his oily charm and calculating delivery painting him as the true puppet master behind the throne.

Gabriel Paul’s Boxer is heartbreakingly earnest, his unwavering faith in the pigs making his ultimate fate devastating. Tianah Hodding brings warmth and quiet resilience to Clover, and Brydie Servie’s Clara delivers an emotionally shattering performance, particularly in the gut-wrenching moment she realises she will never see her chicks hatch. Farshid Rokey’s Minty provides some light relief with his cheeky personality, while David Nellist’s Benjamin balances cynicism with moments of unexpected tenderness. Alexander Williams as Blue, the terrifying enforcer, adds a menacing presence to the farm’s downfall.

Leeds Playhouse’s Animal Farm is a triumphant and thought-provoking production that powerfully translates Orwell’s classic to the stage. Through exceptional physical performances, striking atmospheric design, and masterful movement, it creates a gripping and often unsettling experience. The cast’s unwavering commitment to their roles brings the story to life with haunting intensity, making for a compelling and unforgettable piece of theatre that lingers in the mind long after the final scene.

Animal Farm is at Leeds Playhouse until Saturday 29th March 2025. Tickets are available for purchase through the link provided below.

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Photo Credit - Kirsten McTernan

*Our tickets for this show were kindly gifted in exchange for an honest review.